Guitar practice tips for beginners

This article provides general guidance on practicing guitar. The specific lessons and practice routine suggested may differ depending on the guitar program.

Practice is crucial for achieving your goals in playing the guitar! While practice is essential for honing any musical skill, the primary factors that drive the development of strong guitar skills are

• The interest to learn

• Patience &

• Commitment

Individuals may choose to learn the guitar as a hobby, as a casual performer, or with aspirations of becoming a semi-professional or professional musician. Acquiring proficient guitar skills can be a lifelong asset! The dedication and hard work invested in practice today will yield significant rewards in the future!

Learning to play the Guitar well is “Progressive” !

“Progressive” means you develop the skills gradually and your approach towards learning is important to develop good playing skills. Never compare yourself to other guitarists. The skill levels & creativity of each individual differs, and your focus should be to constantly improve your skills on the guitar.

Settling down period

As you begin your Guitar learning journey, you will encounter a crucial stage known as the "Settling down period," lasting approximately 1 to 2 months. It is a time when you must manage your daily routines effectively, making time for practice and classes. Stay dedicated and focused during this phase, as successfully navigating it will pave the way for rapid and smooth progress.

How much practice is required ?

• Consistency in Practice is important. At least 2 to 3 times a week of 30 to 45 minutes per "Practice Session" is required. Figure out specific “days” in a week that you are relaxed and have free time. Fix a “Me time” on these days for practice and avoid distractions during this time.

• There could be days when you are tired, or feeling lazy or have other excuses to skip a Practice Session !! The SECRET is to "JUST PICK UP THE GUITAR”. Once you pick up the Guitar, you are sure to Practice for at least 15 minutes !!

• Put your best efforts in the initial few months. Once your fundamentals, techniques, song playing skills etc. have developed well, even with less practice you will progress!

• For adults, if your work schedules are such that you do not find time to practice in the evening or night, the best time to practice is in the mornings before leaving to work. It is just a matter of waking up a little early!                                                                                                          

• Do not keep your guitar in the bag ! Buy a guitar stand and place the guitar where you can easily reach out for a quick practice session.

I did not get time to practice!

Missing practice for a few days or for longer periods due to personal, professional or other reasons is normal for everybody during the learning process, and it is nothing to be concerned about. Even professionals do not get practice for various reasons. During these times try to practice a song for 10 to 15 Minutes.

Efficient Practice

Efficient practice means utilizing your practice time well to get maximum value out of a practice session. Randomly playing the guitar is not going to yield desired results, a practice plan is important.

In general the practice plan can be split into two categories

1)     Fundamentals & Techniques related to chords and lead: 15 to 20 Minutes

2)    Songs: 15 to 20 Minutes

• Keep rotating the exercises and songs by selecting different combination during each practice session.

• If you have less time on any day, practice a song for about 10 to 15 minutes for a quick practice session.

• Always practice at a slow tempo to start with, focusing on fluency of notes and playing in time. Gradually increase to the desired tempo.

Other Points:

• Being relaxed mentally and physically while practicing is important. If you lose focus, take a few minutes break before you can continue.

• Focus more on the areas that you are weak at and develop your skills in these areas.

• To use time efficiently make sure your practice environment is well organized so that you can easily reach out to the guitar, laptop, lesson notes, picks etc.

• Last but not the least have fun while learning. Take your time; slow or fast you will reach your guitar playing goals!

In addition to the fun you learning the Guitar, playing a musical instrument can benefit you in many other ways. Watch this Video from TED-Ed.

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